crossing the screen10th Eastbourne International Film Festival
A film festival that inspires and empowers creatives and audiences.
A Decade of Stories
That Open Eyes
For 10 years, Crossing the Screen has connected audiences with bold, international cinema that challenges perspectives and sparks conversation. Through our 9-year-running festival, we celebrate diverse voices, elevate filmmakers, and foster a vibrant community rooted in creativity, learning, and exchange.
Crossing the Screen is back—celebrating 10 years of bringing people together through cinema.
The Eastbourne International Film Festival returns for its 10th edition, marking a decade of bold storytelling, cultural exchange, and unforgettable cinematic experiences. This special anniversary year unfolds across two iconic venues—The Cavendish Hotel and Hailsham Pavilion Cinema—opening an exciting new chapter for the festival as it continues to grow and reach wider audiences.
From 2nd May to 9th May, Eastbourne will once again become a vibrant hub for innovative and independent visual storytelling from around the world. The festival is dedicated to championing unique voices and emerging filmmakers who are not afraid to challenge conventions and redefine cinema.
Audiences can expect a dynamic programme of screenings, filmmaker Q&As, networking opportunities, and educational workshops—creating space for dialogue, creativity, and meaningful connection.
At the heart of it all is Crossing the Screen—the driving force behind the festival. Through year-round community screenings and events across Eastbourne, it extends the festival’s reach beyond the screen, keeping cinema accessible, inclusive, and alive within the community.
10th eastbourne international film festival history
🎬 Crossing the Screen — A Journey Through the Years
2016 — The Beginning
The journey starts at the Birley Centre in Eastbourne, where the very first edition of Crossing the Screen sets the stage for a bold new celebration of independent cinema.
2017–2018 — Growing Across the Town
The festival expands across four venues in Eastbourne, including the iconic Towner Art Gallery—bringing diverse stories to wider audiences and building a strong cultural presence.
2019 — Rooted in Community
The 4th edition finds a home at Leaf Hall Community Arts Centre, strengthening ties with the local creative community and embracing a grassroots, inclusive spirit.
2020–2021 — Cinema Without Borders
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the 5th and 6th editions move online—continuing to connect audiences worldwide through powerful storytelling.
2023 — العودة to the Big Screen
The 7th edition marks a vibrant return to in-person cinema at The Grove Theatre, alongside a special pre-festival screening at Leaf Hall—reigniting the shared festival experience.
2024 — Building Momentum
The 8th edition continues at The Grove Theatre, solidifying the festival’s place in Eastbourne’s cultural landscape.
2025 — Expanding Horizons
The 9th edition takes place at The Cavendish Hotel, introducing an enriched programme of screenings, workshops, and networking opportunities.
✨ 2026 — A Milestone Year
The 10th edition runs from 2nd to 9th May across The Cavendish Hotel, Eastbourne, and Hailsham Pavilion Cinema.
8 days of cinema, celebration, and connection—featuring screenings, special events, and creative encounters. The most ambitious edition yet.
